Today's passage from Mark is near the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. He has just spent time teaching in the synagogue and healing people. He arrives at his friend's house, but his work is not over.

Jesus came to heal people — not just physically, as in the case of Simon’s mother-in-law, but in a way that healed their souls as well. The passage says Jesus “took her by the hand and lifted her up.” I like to think that in times of hurt, Jesus lifts us up as well.

Simon’s mother-in-law felt better after Jesus healed her. She was also compelled to serve. When our hearts and minds are changed by Jesus, by an encounter with him, or by his healing presence, we are compelled to serve — to share that healing love with others. Whatever “healing” we might need, when we encounter Jesus, our lives are changed.

By Susan Reed from D365